This commemorative collection marks 125 years of the Royal Australian Navy and reflects the evolution of its uniform button designs across more than a century of service.
Australia’s first naval forces were established by the colonies in the 1850s. Following Federation, these separate forces were unified on 1 March 1901 as the Commonwealth Naval Forces. Plans to develop a modern fleet followed in 1909, and on 10 July 1911 the title Royal Australian Navy was granted. The arrival of the first Australian fleet units in October 1913 marked a significant step in the nation’s maritime defence capability.
At the time of Federation, naval uniform buttons featured the Tudor Crown. Commissioned Officers wore rope-edged buttons, while other ranks wore plain-edged designs, a distinction that has largely remained. In 1913, the “Lazy Anchor” button was introduced, named for its angled anchor and inscribed ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY. This design was updated in 1928 to feature an upright anchor with AUSTRALIA, and in 1953 the Tudor Crown was replaced by the St Edward’s Crown following the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
In 2026, as the Royal Australian Navy marks its 125th year, insignia continues to evolve to reflect the reign of King Charles III.
This limited-edition collection includes an individually numbered Royal Australian Navy Medallion featuring the official 125 Years of the Royal Australian Navy logo on its reverse. It is accompanied by eight individually numbered lapel pins, each representing a distinct era of naval button design. Crafted to reflect the size and appearance of the originals, this set offers a meaningful tribute to the heritage of the Royal Australian Navy.
125 Years - Royal Australian Navy
Official authorised merchandise
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